1. Corporate Benefits of a Socio-cultural Anthropology Degree
What is sociocultural anthropology?
Sociocultural anthropologists examine social patterns and practices across cultures, with a special
interest in how people live in particular places and how they organize, govern, and create meaning
within their cultural context. Research in sociocultural anthropology is distinguished by its emphasis on
participant observation, which involves placing oneself in the research context for extended periods of
time to gain a first-hand sense of how local knowledge is put to work. Topics of concern to sociocultural
anthropologists include such areas as health, work, ecology and environment, education, development,
globalization, conflict, and social change.
Anthropologists are employed in a number of different sectors, from colleges and universities to
government agencies, NGOs, businesses, and health and human services. Outside the university,
anthropologists work in government agencies, private businesses, and community organizations. Their
work may involve assessing economic needs, evaluating policies, developing new programs, and other
relevant activities. You will find anthropologists addressing social and cultural consequences at all levels
in society.
Corporate Benefits:
• Anthropologists are trained in the areas of cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Trained in “participant observation” where anthropologists work and participate within a group
over an extended period of time, in order to understand the different aspects of a system and
how it relates to society as a whole.
• The ability to analyze and understand the “big picture” while being able to focus on the smaller
integrated components as part of a system.
• Anthropologists are trained to analyze the root causes of problems and work towards solutions,
rather than merely addressing symptoms.
• Skilled in the areas of research and fieldwork, along with qualitative and quantitative methods
for gathering and analyzing information.
• Knowledge of the cultural and social factors that influence human behaviour through a holistic
approach.
• Theoretical approaches and practical methods for enhancing cross-cultural understanding and
communication.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills through active listening, empathy, and patience.
• Highly developed interpersonal communications skills, writing ability, observational acuity,
interviewing experience, and familiarity with survey and statistical methods.
• The ability to adapt quickly and easily to new situations and environments.
• Comfortable in diverse social and employment contexts with people from different
backgrounds.
Created By: Casey Germain Updated: October 21, 2014